September 1st: Breathtaking views on the drive to Capital Reef

Today we drove from Blanding, UT to Capital Reef National Park.  The drive was 150 miles and at least 130 miles were of unbelievable views. 

 

Our first stop was the visitor center at Capital Reef where we spoke with a ranger for hiking suggestions.  Then we headed to the campground to unhook so we could go hiking!  Capital Reef is described as a "giant buckle in the earth's crust that stretches across south-central Utah.  Within the park you will see colorful cliffs, massive domes, soaring spires, stark monoliths, twisting canyons and graceful arches".  We couldn't wait to see it all.

One of Phil's first shots of the day!  We were impressed.

The ranger suggested  Cohab Canyon Trail and continue on Frying Pan trail.  There was an elevation gain of 960 feet but it seemed a pretty easy climb compared to other days.  It was in the upper 80's with a cool breeze at times. The sky was cloudy which was a nice break from the heat.

We both took a lot of pictures and it is so hard to pick only a few.  There is a historic homestead in the park that included the house, out buildings and an old truck.

We love Capital Reef!!! This is our most favorite park to date because of the hiking, rock formations, and the color in the rocks.  Rust, cream, taupe, gray, pink, white, and a few colors I may have forgotten make for beautiful combinations. 


After supper we had strawberry-rhubarb pie with ice cream for dessert which we purchased at the gift shop in the historic homestead.  There are orchards at the park with 3100 fruit trees.  Tomorrow we hope to pick plums, pears, and peaches.  We don't have much extra room, so a couple of each may have to do.

Well it's an early start tomorrow to avoid the heat.  Hope to hike 10 miles.